Two-photon manipulation of neuronal activity and behavior in Hydra vulgaris

Abstract

Summary: The introduction of calcium imaging has rendered cnidarians, such as Hydra vulgaris, valuable model organisms for investigating neuronal activity and behavior. Here, we present a comprehensive protocol to image and manipulate neuronal activity and behavior of Hydra. We describe steps for wide-field imaging and two-photon simulation and ablation of neurons. We then detail imaging behavior and post-ablation analysis. We address challenges that may arise during the preparation and execution of the experiments. : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

Keywords

• Neuroscience
• Behavior
• Evolutionary Biology